New procedures for vehicle tax exemption Published Dec. 28, 2011 By Capt. Ryan Richter 90th Missile Wing Judge Advocate F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- The Laramie County Treasurer's Office recently implemented new procedures regarding applications for exemption from the Wyoming vehicle registration tax. People may apply for this exemption if they are not legal residents of the state of Wyoming. One's state of legal residence is where one has lived and to where, whenever he or she is absent, one intends to return. When applying for the vehicle tax exemption, please note the following: · The Treasurer's Office will require registers to produce a military identification card, a copy of their orders, their current leave and earnings statement, and a completed Affidavit of Non-residence and Military Service, which can be found at: http://www.laramiecounty.com/_departments/_treasurer/military.asp. · The front side of the Affidavit of Non-residence and Military Service must be completed by the registering member. The back side of the affidavit must be completed by a commanding officer or an officer from the legal office. Please understand that the affidavit is a sworn document and that falsifying it in any way could result in criminal prosecution by local authorities or administrative or punitive action by the military. · Members will not receive an exemption from the tax if they are registered to vote in Wyoming or if their LES shows Wyoming for tax purposes. Also, members will not receive an exemption unless their Affidavit of Non-residence and Military Service is signed by an appropriate officer. · If one is the spouse of a military member who is deployed or on a temporary duty assignment, he or she may still apply for the exemption. A copy of the military member's orders and LES, the completed Affidavit of Non-residence and Military Service signed by the military member's commanding officer or an officer from the servicing legal office, and a valid power of attorney must be presented. Powers of attorney can be obtained by visiting a legal office. If the spouse of a military member chooses to remain in Wyoming, they will not be eligible for the exemption if the military member is no longer assigned in Wyoming due to a permanent change of station. · The Treasurer's Office will retain a copy of one's orders and LES for their records. These records are secured and destroyed after two years. Bank information from one's LES may be redacted if desired. One's social security number must be provided on the Affidavit of Non-residence and Military Service. This information is used to confirm one is not a registered voter in Wyoming. These new procedures will provide consistency and fairness to the exemption application process. While there is bound to be some frustration with any new process, please remember to show respect and professionalism as a member of the United States military. If there are any questions about requirements for legal residency or the vehicle tax exemption process, please contact the 90th Missile Wing Legal Office at 773-2256.